Austin Locks

Locksmiths Tips!

15 Ways To Safeguard A Commercial Property

Posted by on Feb 4, 2016

15 Ways To Safeguard A Commercial Property

As a commercial property owner, it is of utmost importance to protect your commercial property from intruders and other disasters. In fact, this should be your first priority. Vandalism can really soil the image of your business and you do not want that to happen. Disaster strikes when least expected and there is property that is prone to destruction. Therefore, you must take the necessary precautions to lower risks and protect your property. Having said that, the following are the top 15 ways to effectively safeguard your commercial property.
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Ensure there is proper lighting

Lighting serves a vital purpose of providing maximum visibility especially at night. To prevent vandalism, all lighting fixtures should have vandal-proof covers. The perimeter wall should be properly lit so as to scare off robbers. All entry points such as doors, windows should be well lit as well.

Install solid doors

All doors in your commercial property should be solidly constructed and lined with heavy metal crossbars.

Install secure windows

Windows offer better security when fitted with secure locks and burglar-resistant glass. For improved security, install polyester security films with break sensor alarms. The rear windows are more vulnerable hence should be fitted with heavy metal grates.

Install alarm systems

Installing alarm systems in your commercial property helps to deter burglar activities. For guaranteed safety, it’s good to ensure the process is done by a licensed alarm company. The alarm company must have a central monitoring station. Besides, it should be checked regularly to ensure it functions optimally.

Care for the cash register

The cash register should be kept at a point where it’s not easily seen from outside the building. Ensure its open whenever it’s empty or not being used for easy monitoring.

Strong safes

home safeTo offer better protection, the safe must be burglar -resistant and fireproof. While it should be visible, it’s good to ensure it’s securely anchored. Keep the safe open when it’s empty and lock in all valuables at the end of the day. For the sake of your security , change the safe’s combination whenever you sack or release employees who have details regarding the safe.

Inspect the building’s exterior

Inspect your building’s exterior regularly to ensure all the openings are secured. Maintain proper landscaping to achieve better visibility. It’s also a good security measure to remove things like vehicle equipment , boxes , cans and trash bins away from the building to avoid burglars accessing the rooftop.

Perimeter fences

An ideal perimeter fence should be erected at heights which an intruder cannot be able to access your property. For a fence to serve its purpose, it should be vertically erected with 0.3 vinyl coated vertical iron bars.

Key controls

All commercial property keys should be handled responsibly. Ensure all the keys are coded and locked somewhere safely when they are not being used.

Install surveillance cameras in your commercial property

Security CamerasWhile they might cost you a significant amount of money, surveillance cameras play an important role of deterring burglars. Moreover, with these cameras installed in your commercial premises, it is possible to get the burglars after a break-in.

Use of Anti-climb fences

If your commercial property is of substantial size, consider putting an anti-limb fence or a wall around the perimeter.

Using Key-card access systems

The security of your commercial property should be taken seriously at all times. When security is at its topmost, your customers and employees will feel safe hence giving you more business. Introducing key-card access systems on exterior doors will ensure than unauthorized people do not access the premises.

Taking an Insurance cover

Taking an insurance cover can help you protect your property from unpredictable disasters such as fire breaks and burglary. Do enough research to find the reliable insurance company to offer you protection?

Conduct risk assessment

Do thorough investigations in order to evaluate the areas that require attention. It might happen that your commercial property is located in a crime-prone area or your fence needs repair and overlooking such things puts you in a risky situation.

Various disasters including fires, floods, break-ins and many more are a major concern for commercial property owners. There are many ways you can protect commercial properties. Meanwhile, criminals are becoming even smarter so it’s imperative to keep yourself updated with newer methods of protecting your commercial property.

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Types of File Cabinet Locks

Posted by on Feb 4, 2016

Types of File Cabinet Locks

File cabinets locks are installed in offices and residents where there are needs to protect valuable files and documents. There is two type of file cabinet locks, i.e. key-based cabinet lock and an advanced keyless technology that uses coded locking mechanism. Thanks to the guys at Cherry Hills Village Locksmith for all the useful information.

 

The key based file cabinet locks

There are basically two main types of key-based file cabinet locks;

  • Pin Tumblers Key lock
  • Tubular tumble

The most simple and popular key based file cabinet lock is the pin tumbler. The pin tumbler is a cylindrical lock that uses stacks of pins of varying lengths to prevent the locking mechanism from working without the correct key.

 

cabinet lockThe tubular tumble also known as the Ace lock, or radial lock features a variety is pins arranged in a circular pattern, and the corresponding key is cylindrical in shape. These keys are generally considered to be safer and more resilient to many people, but they can actually be drilled without effort and in very little time they can crack. There are some brands however who have advanced their Tubular tumble locks by hardening them and making them impossible to be broken.

 

Another type of lock is cam lock, and nearly all cabinet are supplied with basic cam lock. Thay hooks the cabinet into place on its interior side of its door. These locks are operated with tiny keys and constitute the simplest of the lock fastening.

 

The key based file cabinet locks are mostly used and preferred because they virtually add no cost to the overall price of the cabinet. The problem with them is the potential increased risk of security and liabilities, leading to extra costs and the annoyance that these locks lead to, which is why millions of people around the world are opting to go for the keyless cabinet locks.

 

The keyless cabinet Locks.

Keyless Cabinet LockThe keyless cabinet locks use access control mechanism and electronic locking mechanism which makes it beneficial to people who tend to lose keys. They come in various sizes types and with different levels of sophistications but all in all, they are able to provide better control and high security as compared to keylock file cabinet locks since they streamline the process for accessing the cabinet and serves well against thefts. An access control code is given to the user, and he or she access the cabinet via a computer.They can also be accessed using a radio transmitter and even be operated manually in case of emergency if the transmitter is lost.

 

Other types of keyless based file cabinet lock use a coded locking mechanism with two different password combination for two users. They come with a keypad monitoring the date as times when the file cabinet was accessed. You will also find some other keyless cabinet locks Powered by cameras all tailored to provide security for your files and documents.

 

When choosing the file cabinet locks to use it is important to go for the best that suits your desired level of security, the usability, your budget and of course from a reputable brand. The best and the only way to ensure you get the best is by involving a locksmith when installing your file cabinet locks.

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Which Locks Provide The Highest Home Security?

Posted by on Feb 4, 2016

Which Locks Provide The Highest Home Security?

For many homeowners, the level of security is often a priority selecting door locks. This is because selecting the right locks provides the best defense for their homes to prevent break-ins. The good news is that today’s locks are specially designed to offer much greater protection. However, because of the numerous brands and models available, it can be hard to determine which locks can provide the highest home security.

 

So, which locks provide the highest home security? Below are some of the highest grade security locks that will make you feel totally secure in your home.
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Deadbolt Locks

 

deadboltssssDeadbolt locks are highly recommended for use in residential doors as they provide the highest security level. These locks don’t contain springs, which explains the term “dead.”

 

There are two types of deadbolt locks: single-cylinder deadbolt and double-cylinder deadbolt. The single-cylinder deadbolt lock is usually operated by use of a key from the inside, and with a turn-button on the inside. The double-cylinder deadbolt lock is usually operated from the inside and the outside with a key. Most homeowners prefer double-cylinder deadbolt locks because burglars cannot break the glass to reach in and unlock the door. It offers double security. Be sure to purchase top brand deadbolt locks if you want the highest level of security in your home.

 

Keyless Locks

 

Keyless Lock 1Many residential homes have keyless locks installed to provide highest security level and convenience. The lock has a special feature known as anti theft rolling code that ensures that a single code is not used twice. The advantage with this type of lock is that it’s compatible with garage door openers and home security systems.

 

You might also want to consider selecting this top security lock for your home.

 

Entry Locksets or Handlesets

 

Entry locksets/handlesets are usually combined with deadbolt locks for enhanced security. They feature two door knobs that are locked both from inside and the outside. One of the doorknobs is locked from inside by either depressing or turning a small button while the other doorknob must be unlocked with a key.

 

Mortise Locks

 

It’s common to find Mortise locks on many residential doors due to their advanced security level and convenience.

 

The lock features a flat and rectangular box that fits perfectly into the door’s recess from the edge and includes keyholes and two faceplates consisting of knobs. The deadbolt lock is operated by turning the inside knob while the latch is operated from both sides

 

New Lock Technologies

 

kwikset kevoSome of the most advanced technologies in home security are the new smart locks featuring Bluetooth-enabled deadbolts, cameras, and finger scanners. Others support mobile apps that send you lock activities notifications on your Smartphone and also enable you to effectively manage the locks.

 

These locks are technically engineered to provide maximum security and for convenience.

 

Remember that locksets offer first line defense against intrusion and thus selecting the best is crucial. Be sure to purchase from reputable brands as you are guaranteed of having your home well secured. Also, choose a reputable locksmith for installation as the level of security is also increased when the locks are professionally installed.

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Some Great Solutions For Home Security

Posted by on Feb 4, 2016

Some Great Solutions For Home Security

We all dream of owning a home that reflects the way we would like to live. However, owning a home is one thing, and keeping it safe is another. You may spend a lot of time and money building your dream home and acquiring wealth, only for burglars to steal all you have gathered for a long time within a few minutes. It is thus very important to be prepared for burglary every day since thieves come into your house the day and time that you least expect. Here are a few great solutions for home security that can enhance the safety of your home, brought to us by the guys at www.greenwoodvillagelocksmith.com.

 

Common sense.

Most people think that getting the elaborate home security system that is inflexible and expensive is the ultimate solution to their security problems. However, this is not always the case. Burglars are opportunists; they take advantage of every little mistake that you make to break into your home. For this reason, deal with the common sense issues first before you can sign a contract with a home security provider. Specifically,

  • Lock all the doors whenever you are going out. Even the garage door should not be left open.
  • Don’t let everyone know that you are going out.
  • Ensure that all your doors are made of solid wood or metal. They should be strong at all times.
  • Befriend your neighbors. They will let you know or call the police on your behalf whenever they notice theft going on in your home.
  • Don’t keep all your eggs in one basket. Put your most precious valuables in different locations.
  • If you are going to be absent for a long time, let a trusted friend or neighbor pick your newspapers or mails, because if they pile, everybody will know that you are out. Alternatively, you can cancel the newspaper orders and let the post office keep your mail for you while you are away.

Keep pets

Guard DogPets can help you get rid of the security threats that you are facing. A barking dog, for example, will keep thieves away, because none of them wants to be bitten, leave alone being caught. There are some people who have managed to keep lions and other animals as pets, and they can all enhance the security of your home.

Be crafty

Sometimes you just have to be crafty to keep your house safe. Thieves are cowards, and anything that indicates that they can be easily caught is a put-off. Here are some crafty ideas that can keep thieves away from home.

  • Get a home security sign or sticker to make thieves think that your home is covered by a home security, even if it is not.
  • If you don’t have a dog, get the “BE AWARE OF BARKING DOGS” sign. No thief wants to be barked at because this increases the chances of being caught
  • If you cannot afford an original surveillance camera, get a fake one. It will serve the same function as the original one most of the times.
  • Whenever you leave, ensure that your home looks occupied. Leave the radio on, for instance. You may also use programmable timers to switch on the lights frequently while you are away, to give burglars the impression that the house is occupied. If you are going to be away for a long time, leave the security lights on.
  • Change the location of valuables frequently. You never know how well burglars know your home until they break into it. Therefore, avoid keeping valuables in the same location for a long time.

Change some habits

Some of our habits invite thieves to our own homes. For instance, if you like leaving your spare key hidden somewhere outside your home, you need to get rid of this habit. Don’t let hedges or trees overgrow, especially near windows.

 

Go professional

locksmith3Do-it-yourself security measures are good for your safety, but sometimes you just have to go professional. Get a technician to install deadbolt locks on the interior and exterior walls, deadbolt strike plates and door jams, and eye-viewer in front and back doors. Choose programmable combination keypads for entry locks and add a track lock to sliding glass entry doors. Depending on the regulations of the local authorities, you may have to install a home security system.

 

Technology in home security.

It is also possible to keep thieves away from your home using technological easy-to-use devices. For instance, on top of installing the alarm system, you can install a video monitoring system or a surveillance camera to keep watch of any movements outside your home. Additionally, you can install exterior motion sensor flood lighting to ensure that no movement goes unnoticed. There are also security programs that are compatible with smartphones these days, and you can take advantage of them reduce the probability of your home being burglarized.

 

All in all, great solutions for home security entail a multifaceted approach that dissuades opportunists from stealing your property. You just have to be smart to keep your precious and irreplaceable belongings safe. Knowledge of basic security measures is not enough.

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Does It Make Sense To Have Two Locks On Your Door?

Posted by on Feb 3, 2016

Does It Make Sense To Have Two Locks On Your Door?

Security is a standout amongst the most essential worries of every individual. Nobody likes intruders and all things considered, we attempt as much as we can to keep ourselves and belonging safe from thieves, and this is the reason houses are constructed and fitted with lockable entryways. You need to guarantee that no robber enters your home at any one time and that your well-being and the security of your family is not bargained. Individuals frequently introduce twofold bolts on their entryways with the aim of keeping their homes more secure particularly as most thefts happen amid the day. One is required by construction regulations and insurance agencies to have a double lock on each entryway that has direct access outside the building. Actually, we trust that these efforts to establish safety keep us safe. Be that as it may, does it make sense have two locks on the door? We’ve asked Paradise Valley Locksmith Pros this very question.

Two lock doorYes and yes. It makes sense to have double locks particularly on the off chance that you live in a high or moderate-wrongdoing range. Numerous thieves break into houses either through the entryway or the window. Presently expecting that your windows are locked and not promptly accessible, the criminal will probably make a constrained passage through the door. Having double locks gives included security as it requires more investment to pick or break two locks thus giving your additional time point of interest. In any case, on the off chance that you have double locks on your door, it really bodes well to keep your windows shut and secure too.

The additional security that you will get from introducing two locks will just rely on upon the nature of the locks utilized and how legitimately they have been introduced. Most thieves are not as advanced as depicted in the motion pictures and realize that it is not exactly as simple to pick complex locks. The odds of a robber constraining passage into your home will diminish altogether if your door are fitted with original locks. These deadbolts are typically made of solidified steel and relying upon the class utilized and how well they are fitted; they can make it extremely troublesome for the normal thief to get into your home.

Most protection suppliers oblige property holders to introduce double locks . On the off chance that, your house is broken into, and your property is stolen by a robber, the insurance agency will probably repay you on the off chance that they check that you had gone the additional mile to secure your home. You additionally get the chance to pay generally bring down premiums.

In spite of the fact that individuals frequently gripe that double locks are more risky than they are advantageous, it is beneficial to introduce them as they speak to a more elevated amount of assurance than standard single locks do.

The flame dangers can be diminished by introducing single-jolt locks that just require a key to bolt from the outside yet can be locked and opened naturally from within utilizing a turn doorknob. While you might run the periodic danger of locking yourself outside, introducing such secures all way out entryways gives more security to your home furthermore permits you to leave the building effectively if there should be an occurrence of flame or some other crises.

There are distinctive sorts of double locks that work best for various individuals. On the off chance that there are little windows in the doors that can be broken into or escape clauses that make single-jolt twofold bolts incapable, it will be more fitting to utilize twofold jolt locks. On the off chance that the double locks jolt framework is undesirable, supplanting and getting one that is intended to security components, for example, strengthened glass will be the best choice. This will discourage or slow down a thief from effectively getting into your home.

locksmith11At last, locate an expert locksmith at whatever point you need to change your locks or even to replace your keys. Keep in mind that you are giving an aggregate more interesting access to your home and believing him with your security. There are numerous sketchy locksmiths who might give you a substandard employment or more awful still make a duplicate of your keys and team up with criminals to take from you.

It is critical to do your examination well before picking a locksmith to introduce those double locks . Make an inquiry or two for proposals from loved ones. You can likewise discover proficient locksmiths close to you by checking the Better Business Bureau, with regards to your security, you can’t be excessively cautious.

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